Photo Courtesy of VDOTUpdated: Jan. 26: 7 p.m.
Due to forecasts for snow bands that could bring two to three inches in some areas, the Virginia Department of Transportation says it will ramp up coverage up to about 1475 trucks in Loudoun, Fairfax, Prince William and Arlington counties, to plow snow and treat for ice on major roads as well as secondary and neighborhood streets.
Original Post:
The Virginia Department of Transportation warns motorists to begin their afternoon commutes prior to 4 p.m. to avoid potentially hazardous travel.
"Drivers are asked to commute and travel in the early afternoon if possible, prior to 4 p.m., to get ahead of increasing precipitation and dropping pavement temperatures expected this evening," a VDOT spokesperson said.
The afternoon commute is expected to be much more difficult than this morning as rain and wintry mix becomes snow throughout the day.
A Winter Weather Advisory is in effect for the area until 10 a.m. Tuesday.
VDOT announced that throughout the day, crews will apply a light application of salt, or mix of salt and liquid magnesium chloride throughout the area.
"About 900 trucks will remain on duty this evening throughout Loudoun, Fairfax, Prince William and Arlington counties," they said.
Since bridge and pavement temperatures are forecasted to be at or below freezing from 6 p.m. today through mid-day Tuesday, VDOT crews will continue to treat roads through the evening rush and overnight.
"Drivers are asked to use caution, particularly in neighborhoods where slick conditions may develop this evening," they said.
Bristow Beat will continue to monitor the weather throughout this weather event; closing & delay information can be found here.
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